Journal Entry

Guidepost Feature: Meet Krista Whitney

August 7, 2019

Teachers inspired her upbringing and her own independent path to learning

Krista Whitney is the Head of School at Guidepost Montessori at Deerfield in Milton, Georgia.

Tell us about yourself.

I grew up in Georgia and had always known I wanted to be in education at some level. I went to school in Kentucky with an athletic scholarship knowing I wanted to make a difference in children’s lives. I worked with all ages of children, ranging from infancy through elementary. I thought I might want to consider middle school, so I received my Masters in Education. However, I quickly learned that the beginning stages in life is where my heart remains.

What inspires you about education?

Growing up, I learned the same way as most children. It wasn’t until an accident occurred that I was forced to learn in a different way. It was truly so bad that the doctors even told my parents they did not need to put me through school because I would not be successful and would not be able to finish school. I later met teachers who taught me it is okay to be different and not everything is seen in the same way. Those are the teachers who encouraged me to remain in school and prove those doctors wrong.

How did you discover Montessori?

I first discovered Montessori in college through courses. Then later in life, I had family friends who were putting their children through Montessori and are currently still there.

How does Montessori philosophy inspire your daily life?

The philosophy inspires my daily life by overall independence. Rather than moving on to something else, I try to take my time and look at things from different angles to get a different perspective.

Do you have a favorite Montessori quote?

The greatest signs of success for a teacher is to be able to say that “the children are now working as if I did not exist.”

What have you learned from your time working for Guidepost Montessori thus far?

I have learned that it is not just a team but a family, and it is a family that truly wants everyone to be successful.

What do you enjoy most about working with your teammates?

That we all have a common goal and that is for all children to be able to grow with Montessori!

What are your passions, interests, and hobbies?

I am obsessed with my six-month-old daughter. I also love puppies and am a competitive bowler!